Protective pad apparatus having air ventilating and restrictive radiant heat transfer/absorption aspects

ABSTRACT

A protective pad apparatus having a shell assembly and an impact absorbing cushioning pad assembly lining the inner surfaces of the shell assembly. The cushioning pad assembly may include a plurality of discrete cushioning pads wherein at least one of the pads includes a laminate having at least one impact absorbing layer which allows air to flow therethrough. The shell assembly may include a plurality of discrete protector panels. At least one of the protector panels may include one or more raised embossments.

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/437,952, filed on Jan. 3, 2003.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to an apparatus for protecting theshoulders, chest, and back of an athlete or other user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In present day football, football players are instructed totackle or block by directing the impact forces of the tackle or blockinto their shoulders and driving with their legs. Consequentially, thereare fewer head and neck injuries than years ago, when tacking orblocking was performed by leading with the helmeted head into the chestarea of the ball carrier.

[0004] Conventional shoulder, chest, and back pad apparatuses designedfor use by football players (football shoulder pads), usually allow theplayers to tackle or block using the above shoulder impaction technique,without suffering injury. However, Brachial Plexus injuries, i.e.,injury to the Acromio Clavicular Joint more commonly known as aseparated shoulder, have been rising in frequency. The increase inBrachial Plexus injuries has lead football equipment managers andtrainers to demand more protection from football shoulder pads.

[0005] Most conventional football shoulder pads typically have an outershell which is molded in a high-density-high molecular weightpolyethylene. This material has been proven effective in withstandingimpacts commonly encountered in football. However, the most populardesigns are molded in a dark colors, such as gray, which undesirably aidthe shell in absorbing external ambient heat from the sun. Moreover, theouter shell of these popular designs, do not allow air ventilation.

[0006] The outer shell is typically constructed in two halves, whereineach halve includes an arch-shape inner shoulder protector portion, achest protector or front blade portion extending from one end of theinner shoulder protector portion, a back protector or rear blade portionextending from the other end of the inner shoulder protector portion, anouter shoulder protector panel, and a lower shoulder protector panel.The rear blade portions of the two halves of the outer shell areconnected to one another so that the rear blade portions are fixedlypositioned relative to one another and are incapable of movingindependently of one another. The inner shoulder protector portion, thefront blade portion and the rear blade portions of each shell halve aremolded as a single unitary member. The front and rear blade portions,which are molded flat, tend to be susceptible to stress fractures orcracking over time or from repeated impacts. When fracturing or crackingoccur, the front blade/inner shoulder/rear blade unit must be discardedand replaced by a person with the knowledge and tooling to make suchrepairs. The front blade portions of the outer shell halves aretypically tied to one another using strings or shoelaces, which arethreaded through “eye holes” in the front blade portions. When thestrings or shoelaces are properly tightened, a gap of approximately twoinches exists between the front blade portions. Although this gap isrelatively small, it does leave the football player's body open andunprotected in this area.

[0007] The inner surface of the outer shell is lined with a protectivepadding that rests against the player's body. In conventional footballshoulder pads, this padding is typically comprised of “open cell”polyurethane and/or “closed cell” vinyl nitrile foam. A substantiallynon-air-ventilating nylon cover encapsulates the foam(s) and operates inconjunction therewith to create an “air system”. In the air system, airtrapped in the cells of a section of foam which has been compressed froman impact, is transferred, to a section of the foam not compressed fromthe impact. The non-air-ventilating nylon cover functions in this systemto control and regulate the air being transferred in the foam during theimpact.

[0008] Although the nylon cover is substantially non-air-ventilating,the foam can still manages to absorb perspiration and water. Sinceexisting padding design provide no practical way to open the cover toclean or disinfect the foam, mold and mildew can grow inside the paddingand potentially make the wearer ill. The perspiration and water absorbedin the foam also increases the weight of the padding which must becarried by the football player during play. Furthermore, when the nyloncover of the padding becomes wet with oily perspiration, the shoulderpads become slippery and may shift dangerously when a collision occurs.

[0009] The padding of conventional football shoulder pads has proven tobe somewhat effective in absorbing the shock of an impact, the padding,however, does not allow the football player's body to cool itself. Thisis because the foam used in the padding has heat transfer properties(high R factors) that do not allow heat dissipation, and thus, operatesas an heat insulator. The non-air-ventilating nylon does not allow heatand air to flow through the padding, thus, effectively adding to theheat insulative nature of the padding. Hence, the padding employed inconventional football shoulder pads actually speeds up the overheatingof the player's body by not allowing internally generated heat toescape. Accordingly, conventional football shoulder pads are actually amajor contributor to the overheating process of the body.

[0010] The protective padding is typically permanently attached to theouter shell, or removably attached to the outer shell with a hook andloop fastening system. The hook and loop fastening system is very laborintensive and often difficult to master on some football shoulder paddesigns.

[0011] A football player experiences a total heat load which isdetermined by the time spent on the field, the intensity of play, theclothing and equipment worn, the temperature on the field, and the aircirculation on the field. If the heat load is sufficiently severe,effects on the player's health and performance will occur. These effectsrange from decreased concentration to injuries including painful cramps,fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and sometimes death, whichrequire immediate medical attention by the team trainer or doctor. Asshould be apparent from the above discussion, conventional footballshoulder pads only address injuries related to impact, and do notaddress injuries relating to heat load. Moreover, conventional footballshoulder pads actually increase the heat load because they block thebody's ability to dissipate heat generated thereby.

[0012] Body cooling safety issues should be especially important infootball shoulder pad apparatus design because June, July, August, andSeptember have the highest temperatures during the year and are themonths when football programs commence, at every level of competition.Furthermore, the “bowl” shape of the typical football stadium, traps thesun's infrared rays and causes what is known as the “greenhouse” effect.As a result, the field temperature during competition may be as high as120 degrees Fahrenheit. Athletes who participate in these conditionsgenerate body heat internally with physical activity, which is augmentedby exposure to the hot sun. The resultant high level of body heatmitigates against an effective performance and can be dangerous andsometimes lethal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013]FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an illustrative embodimentof a protective pad apparatus.

[0014]FIG. 2 is a rear elevational view of the protective pad apparatusof FIG. 1.

[0015]FIG. 3 is a side view of the protective pad apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0016]FIG. 4 is a plan view of the protective pad apparatus of FIG. 1showing the interior or athlete body side of the apparatus of FIG. 1with one of the front, inner and back shoulder cushioning pads removed.

[0017]FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a section of the interior of theapparatus of FIG. 4 showing one of two spring elements.

[0018]FIG. 6 is a plan view of an embodiment of one of the chestcushioning pads illustrating an outer surface (faces the shell assembly)thereof.

[0019]FIG. 7 is a plan view of the chest cushioning pad shown in FIG. 6illustrating an inner surface (faces the athlete) thereof.

[0020]FIG. 8 is a plan view of an embodiment of one of the innershoulder cushioning pads illustrating an outer surface (faces the shellassembly) thereof.

[0021]FIG. 9 is a plan view of the inner shoulder cushioning pad shownin FIG. 8 illustrating an inner surface (faces the athlete) thereof.

[0022]FIG. 10 is a plan view of an embodiment of one of the backcushioning pads illustrating an outer surface (faces the shell assembly)thereof.

[0023]FIG. 11 is a plan view of the back cushioning pad shown in FIG. 10illustrating an inner surface (faces the athlete) thereof.

[0024]FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view illustrating the constructionof an embodiment of the inner shoulder cushioning pad.

[0025]FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the constructionof another embodiment of the inner shoulder cushioning pad.

[0026]FIG. 12C a cross-sectional view illustrating the construction of afurther embodiment of the inner shoulder cushioning pad.

[0027]FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view illustrating the constructionof an embodiment of the channel cushioning pad.

[0028]FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view illustrating the constructionof an embodiment of the chest, back, lower shoulder, and deltoidcushioning pads.

[0029]FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the constructionof an another embodiment of the chest, back, lower shoulder, and deltoidcushioning pads.

[0030]FIG. 14 is a cross-section view illustrating the construction ofan embodiment of the outer shoulder cushioning pad.

[0031]FIG. 15A is a plan view of a section of the protective padapparatus illustrating an embodiment of a strap which may be used forconnecting the lower shoulder panel to the inner shoulder panel.

[0032]FIG. 15B is a plan view of a section of the protective padapparatus illustrating an embodiment of a dual strap which may be usedconnecting the lower shoulder panel to the inner shoulder panel.

[0033]FIG. 16A is an elevational view of an embodiment of a sternumprotector plate of the protective pad apparatus.

[0034]FIG. 16B is an elevational view of another embodiment of a sternumprotector plate of the protective pad apparatus.

[0035]FIG. 17A is an elevational view of an embodiment of a spineprotector plate of the protective pad apparatus.

[0036]FIG. 17B is an elevational view of another embodiment of a spineprotector plate of the protective pad apparatus.

[0037]FIG. 18A is an elevational view of a shell assembly panelillustrating an embodiment of a raised embossment.

[0038]FIG. 18B is an elevational view of a shell assembly panelillustrating another embodiment of a raised embossment.

[0039]FIG. 19 is an elevational view of one of the shell assemblyhalves.

[0040]FIG. 20 is cross-sectional view illustrating the construction ofan embodiment of the spring element.

[0041]FIG. 21 is a front elevational view of another illustrativeembodiment of a protective pad apparatus.

[0042]FIG. 22 is a rear elevational view of the protective pad apparatusof FIG. 21.

[0043]FIG. 23 is a side view of the protective pad apparatus of FIG. 21.

[0044]FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of an embodiment of a beltstrap cushioning pad.

[0045]FIG. 25 is a plan view of another embodiment of a chest or backcushioning pad illustrating an outer surface (faces the shell assembly)thereof.

[0046]FIG. 26 is a front elevational view of a further illustrativeembodiment of a protective pad apparatus.

[0047]FIG. 27 is a rear elevational view of the protective pad apparatusof FIG. 26.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] A protective pad apparatus made according to the principles ofthe present invention comprises a shell assembly and an impact absorbingcushioning pad assembly lining the inner surfaces (the surfaces facingthe athlete's body) of the shell assembly. The protective pad apparatusof the present invention is intended for use by athletes and other userswho participate in contact sports, such as football players. It shouldbe understood, however, that the protective pad apparatus of the presentinvention may also be used or adapted for use in other types ofactivities, which require impact protection, such as hockey, lacrosse,skateboarding, snowboarding, roller-skating, rodeo, stuntman,equestrian, motor sports, and all other activities where protectivepadding is necessary.

[0049] The protective pad apparatus is typically worn over the shouldersof the athlete's body to provide impact protection for the athlete'sshoulders and upper torso, i.e., the chest, and back. As will becomeapparent further on, the protective pad apparatus 10 of the presentinvention features increased impact protection, allows the athlete'sbody to cool or thermo-regulate itself, provides the athlete withgreater ease of movement and mobility, and restricts radiant heattransfer/absorption from the sun.

[0050] FIGS. 1-4 show an embodiment of a protective pad apparatus 10 ofthe present invention. The shell assembly of the pad apparatus 10 maycomprise a plurality of discrete, substantially rigid protector panelswhich form a first shell halve H1 and a complementary second shell halveH2. The protector panels of each shell halve H1, H2 may include anarch-shape inner shoulder panel 12 b, a chest panel 12 a, a back panel12 e, an outer shoulder panel 12 c, and a lower shoulder panel 12 d. Theouter shoulder panel 12 c may be cup-shaped and somewhat elongated. Thelower shoulder panel 12 d may also be cup-shaped. The ends of the innershoulder panel 12 b may overlap the upper ends of the chest and backpanels 12 a and 12 e, as shown in FIG. 19. Fasteners 31 may be used tofasten the overlapping ends of the inner shoulder panel 12 b and thechest and back panels 12 a, 12 e together. The outer shoulder panel 12 cmay be fastened to the inner shoulder panel 12 b with a flexible strap30 a that may be constructed, without limitation, from a polyesterwebbing, which may be coated with polyurethane. A first end of the strap30 a may be fastened with one or more fasteners 31 to an inner surface(the surface facing the athlete) of the outer shoulder panel 12 c and asecond end of the strap 30 a may be fastened with a rigid mounting plate32 and one or more fasteners 31 to an exterior surface (the surfacefacing away from the athlete) of the inner shoulder panel 12 b.

[0051] Still referring to FIGS. 1-4, the lower shoulder panel 12 d maybe fastened to the inner shoulder panel 12 b with a flexible strap 30 bthat may also be constructed, without limitation, from a nylon webmaterial and which may be coated with an elastomeric material. As shownin FIG. 15A, a first end of the strap 30 b may be fastened with one ormore fasteners 31 to an inner surface of the lower shoulder panel 12 dand a second end of the strap 30 b may be fastened with one or morefasteners 31 to an inner surface of the inner shoulder panel 12 b.Alternatively, the lower shoulder panel 12 d may be fastened to theinner shoulder panel 12 b by a pair of flexible straps that may each beconstructed, without limitation, from polyester webbing, which may becoated with polyurethane. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 15B, theflexible strap, denoted by reference characters 130 a and 130 b, maycross one another and be connected together at the crossing point. Thedual straps 130 a and 130 b allow the lower shoulder panel 12 d to twistmore freely, which in turn allows less restrictive movement of theshoulder.

[0052] A sternum protector plate 16 and a spine protector plate 18 maybe used to connect the shell assembly halves H1 and H2 together. Asshown in FIG. 16A, the sternum plate 16 may include upper corner areas16 a and 16 b, lower corner areas 16 c and 16 d, and fastener apertures17 a-d. As shown in FIG. 17A, the spine plate 18 may include uppercorner areas 18 a and 18 b, intermediate areas 18 c and 18 d, lowercorner areas 18 e and 18 f, and fastener apertures 19 a-f. The upper andlower corner areas 16 a-16 d of the sternum plate 16 are fastened to thechest panels 12 a with fasteners 31 as shown in FIG. 1. The upper andlower corner areas 18 a-b and 18 e-f, and the intermediate areas 18 c-dof the spine plate 18 are fastened to the back panels 12 b withfasteners 31, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0053] Referring again to FIG. 16A, the fastener apertures 17 a-d of thesternum plate 16 may be horizontally elongated with the upper cornerfastener apertures 17 a-b slanted upwardly, and the lower corner areafastener apertures 17 c-d slanted downwardly. Referring again to FIG.17A, the fastener apertures 19 a-f of the spine plate 18 may behorizontally elongated with the upper corner fastener apertures 19 a-bslanted upwardly, and the lower corner area fastener apertures 19 e-fslanted downwardly. The sternum and spine plates of FIGS. 16A and 17A,allow the tops or bottoms of the shells halves H1 and H2 to tiltinwardly toward one another as indicated by arrows 81 (FIGS. 1 and 2).The tilting feature allows the pad apparatus to move freely with theathlete's body so as not to hinder the athlete's flexibility or movementduring play.

[0054] In an alternative embodiment of the sternum plate 16 shown inFIG. 16B, the upper corner area fastener apertures 17 a-b may behorizontally elongated and slanted upwardly and the lower corner areafastener apertures 17 c-d may be vertically elongated. Similarly in acorresponding alternative embodiment of the spine plate 18 shown in FIG.17B, the upper corner area and intermediate area fastener apertures 19a-d are horizontally elongated and slanted upwardly (the intermediatearea fastener apertures 19 c-d may be slanted upwardly at a greaterangle than the upper corner area fastener aperture 19 a-b), and thelower corner area fastener apertures 17 c-d may be vertically elongated.The sternum and spine plates of FIGS. 16B and 17B, allow the tops of theshells halves H1′ and H2′ to tilt inwardly toward one another asindicated by arrows 81′ (FIGS. 21 and 22). As in the previousembodiment, the tilting feature also allows the pad apparatus to movefreely with the athlete's body so as not to hinder the athlete'sflexibility or movement during play.

[0055] The spinal plate may also include preformed openings 34 (FIG. 2)for allowing accessories such as collars and neck rolls to be attachedthereto without drilling holes which may weaken the shell assembly.

[0056] Referring again to FIGS. 1-3, one or more of the shell assemblypanels 12 a-e and the sternum and spine plates 16, 18 may be embossed inareas of the panels 12 a-e and plates 16, 18 that are susceptible tostress fractures and cracks. The raised embossments 33 strengthen thepanels 12 a-e and plates 16, 18, thus, enhancing the overall structuralintegrity thereof and allowing the use of a thinner plastic, which inturn lowers the total weight of the pad apparatus 10. The raisedembossments 33 may be configured in a variety shapes. For example, FIGS.21-23 collectively show a pad apparatus 10′ with differently shapedembossments 33′ formed on the shell assembly panels 12 a-e. Theembossments may have one or more levels (the more levels, the strongerthe panel area). For example, in the embodiment shown in the sideelevational view of FIG. 18A, the raised embossment has a single level.In the embodiment shown in the side elevational view of FIG. 18B, theraised embodiment has two levels. Since the panels 12 a-e and theprotector plates 16, 18 of the shell assembly may be formed fromplastic, they can be easily thermoformed with the embossments inconventional male/female molds.

[0057] The upper ends of the chest panels 12 a, the inner shoulderpanels 12 b, and the upper ends of the back panels 12 e may curve orbend away from one another to provide an opening O for the athlete'sneck. The inner edges of the inner shoulder panels 12 b may be coveredwith a biased binding 24, which may be made from nylon or any othermaterial that prevents the inner edges from scraping or cutting of theneck.

[0058] The shell assembly panels 12 a-e, the sternum and spine plates16, 18, and the strap mounting plates 32 may be formed from asubstantially rigid material or combination of materials, includingwithout limitation plastic, aluminized plastic, and carbon fiber. In oneembodiment, the shell assembly panels 12 a-e, the sternum and spineplates 16, 18, and the strap mounting plates 32 are made from a plasticcomprising a high density, high molecular weight polyethylene, and maybe formed using conventional plastic forming techniques, such asthermoforming or injection molding. The thickness of the panels 12 a-eand the plates 16, 18 may range, without limitation, between 0.110inches and 0.140 inches.

[0059] The shell assembly panels 12 a-e, the sternum and spine plates16, 18, and the strap mounting plates 32 may be transparent,translucent, opaque or any combination thereof, and be any color orcombination of colors. In one embodiment, the shell assembly panels 12a-e, the sternum and spine plates 16, 18, and the strap mounting plates32 are opaque and a pearlized white metallic color. The white colorreflects and retains less heat, and the metallic property acts to reducethe amount of heat absorbed by the shell assembly panels 12 a-e, thesternum and spine plates 16, 18 and the strap mounting plates 32, byreflecting the light.

[0060] One or more venting apertures 26 may be formed in one or more ofthe shell assembly panels 12 a-e and the sternum and spine plates 16,18. The venting apertures 26 may circular and about 0.1875 inches indiameter. Such apertures may be placed between about 0.5 inches to about1.5 inches apart from one another. Venting apertures of other shapes,dimensions and spacings may also be used. The venting apertures 26 aidin transferring the heat generated by the athlete's body through the padapparatus 10.

[0061] As shown collectively in FIGS. 4 and 5, an elongated springelement 20 may be provided that generally extends over the inner surfaceof each inner shoulder panel 12 b. The front end 20 a of each springelement 20 may be fastened to the inner surface of the shell assembly atthe location where the inner shoulder panel 12 b and chest panel 12 aoverlap one another, using fastener 31. Similarly, the rear end 20 b ofeach spring element 20 may be fastened to the inner surface of the shellassembly at the location where the inner shoulder panel/back paneloverlap one another, using fastener 31. The fasteners 31 may allow thespring elements to swing laterally a small amount as indicated by arrows82. The spring element 20 functions to strengthen the inner shoulderpanel 12 b so that it resists “flattening” when impacted, and to absorbthe energy and shock of the impact before it reaches the underlyingcushioning pad assembly.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 20, each spring element 20 may comprise laminateincluding a somewhat rigid plastic substrate 20 a, which may be, withoutlimitation, about 0.60 inches in thickness. The outer surface of thesubstrate 20 a (the surface facing the inner shoulder panel 12 b) may belaminated with a impact absorbing material, such as a dense ethylenevinyl acetate (EVA) foam 20 b, to pad the spring element 20. The innersurface (the surface facing the athlete) of the plastic substrate 20 amay be laminated with a non-skid material 20 c, such as rubber. Theperipheral edge of the laminate may be covered with a fabric material 20d that is sewn to the edge of the laminate.

[0063] Referring again to FIGS. 1-4, the cushioning pad assembly liningthe inner surfaces of the shell assembly, may comprise a plurality ofdiscrete cushioning pads. The cushioning pads may comprise, for eachshell assembly halve H1 and H2, a chest cushioning pad 14 a (shownseparately in FIGS. 6 and 7), which may be removably fastened withconventional snap-fasteners 22 to the inner surface of the chestprotector panel 12 a, a back cushioning pad 14 e (shown separately inFIGS. 10 and 11), which may be removably fastened with conventionalsnap-fasteners 22 to the inner surface of back protector panel 12 e, aninner shoulder cushioning pad 14 b (shown separately in FIGS. 8 and 9),which may be removably fastened with conventional snap-fasteners 22 tothe inner surface of the spring element 20, an outer shoulder cushioningpad 14 c, which may be fastened with fasteners 31 to the inner surfaceof the outer shoulder panel 12 c, a lower shoulder cushioning pad 14 d,which may be fastened to the inner surface of the lower shoulderprotector panel 12 d, and a front deltoid cushioning pad 14 f, which mayextend between the outer shoulder pad 14 c and chest pad 14 a. Thedeltoid pad 14 f does not line any of the shell assembly panels 12 a-ebut may have an unpadded or padded portion that allows it to fastened tothe inner surface of the chest panel 12 a and the inner surface of theinner shoulder panel 12 b with fasteners 31.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 1, one or both of the chest pads 14 a may bedimensioned to partially overlap the inner surface of the sternumprotector plate 16 to provided cushioning under the sternum plate 16 toprotect the athlete's sternum. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 2, one orboth of the back pads 14 e may be dimensioned to partially overlap theinner surface of the spine protector plate 18 to provide cushioningunder the spine plate 18 to protect the athlete's spine. One or both ofthe chest pads 14 a (shown in FIGS. 1, 6 and 7) may be configured toflare outwardly at the bottom thereof (denoted by reference character F)to provide impact protection from belt buckle(s) 35 b.

[0065] The fasteners 31 described herein may comprise conventionalrivots or any other suitable fasteners. The snap-fasteners 22 describedherein may comprise conventional circular snap-fasteners of the typehaving a male element 22 a provided on the assembly panel or the pad anda female element 22 b provided on the corresponding assembly panel orpad. The male and female snap fastener elements 22 a and 22 b mayinclude alignment tabs (not shown), which provide a high degree ofstrength and allow separation thereof only when the tabs are properlyaligned. The use of such snap-fasteners ensures that the pads will notcome loose during impact and leave the athlete unprotected. The use ofsnap-fasteners 22 also aids in the efficient removal or addition of thecushioning pads. The cushioning pads utilizing the snap-fasteners canusually be replaced while the athlete or user is wearing the padapparatus 10. Although less desirable, it should be understood, thathook and loop fasteners, zippers, and the like, or any combination ofsuch fasteners may be used in place of the snap-fasteners 22.

[0066] Each shell assembly panel 12 a-e and cushioning pad 14 a-f of padapparatus 10 can be individually replaced with a new or differentlysized and/or shaped panel 12 a-e or pad 14 a-f using ordinary tools (toremove and reinstall fasteners 31). It is contemplated that each shellassembly panel 12 a-e and cushioning pad 14 a-f may be offered in aplurality of different lengths and/or widths and/or shapes toaccommodate a wide variety of player body sizes, types and needs. Thus,if an athlete desires a differently sized and/or shaped assembly shellpanel 12 a-e and/or cushioning pad 14 a-f because of injury, or just asa change of preference in style, the existing assembly shell panel 12a-e and/or cushioning pad 14 a-f can be removed and replaced with thedifferently sized and/or shaped assembly shell panel 12 a-e and/orcushioning pad 14 a-f as described above, to accommodate the athletewithout the need to purchase a different pad apparatus. Still further,an athlete desiring more protection in the chest area and lessprotection in the back area, may remove the existing chest panel 12 aand associated chest pad 14 a and replace them with a longer and orwider chest panel 12 a and chest pad 14 a, and remove the back panel 12e and back pad 14 e and add a shorter and slimmer back panel 12 e andback pad 14 e. If the athlete should then desire to change back to theoriginal configuration, this can be accomplished at any time. All theshell assembly panels 12 a-e and cushioning pads 14 a-f may be madeinterchangeable to create a wide variety of models. Also, if one or moreof the shell assembly panels 12 a-e becomes damaged, the damaged panelor panels can be easily replaced.

[0067] The ability of the athlete's body to expel heat is of majorimportance in enabling the body to effectively cool itself. Thecushioning pads 14 a-14 f are specifically constructed to allow theathlete's body to expel heat.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 12A, the inner shoulder pad 14 b may comprise alaminate formed by an inner fabric layer 40 that faces the athlete'sbody, a first impact absorbing (IA) layer 41, a second IA layer 42, athird IA layer 43, and an outer fabric layer 44 that faces the shellassembly. The third IA layer 43 may be the firmest of the IA layers 41,42, and 43 and the second IA layer 42 may be firmer than the first IAlayer 41. The layers of the laminate may be held together using a verythin, web-like glue (not shown) disposed between adjacent layers, whichallows air ventilation therethrough. One such glue is available fromBostick of Middleton, Mass., under the trade name, Sharnet. Theperipheral edge of the inner shoulder pad 12 b may be covered or trimmedwith a conventional fabric trimming 45 made, without limitation, fromwoven nylon, which may be sewn to the edge of the pad 14 b.

[0069] The inner fabric layer 40 may comprise any well known brushednylon material or other air-ventilating fabric, which is capable offunctioning as the loop member of a hook and loop fastening system. Theinner fabric layer 40 may be a dark color, such as black, for body heatabsorption. The inner fabric layer 40 may alternatively comprise afabric sold under the trade name, Dri-Lex, by Faytex Corporation ofWeymouth, Mass. The Dri-Lex fabric is available as a perforated fabricor as a doeskin-like fabric. Both types of Dri-Lex fabric areair-ventilating.

[0070] The first IA layer 41 may comprise one or more substrates ofreticulated (open cell), polyurethane foam or other air-ventilatingfoam. In one embodiment, the first IA layer 41 may have a thickness ofabout 0.250 inches and a density of 1.30 pounds/cubic-foot. The first IAlayer 41 may be a dark color, such as black, to absorb heat generated bythe athlete's body. Reticulated polyurethane foam is available from avariety of vendors. For example, reticulated polyurethane foam may beobtained from Crest Foam Industries of Moonachie, N.J. The first IAlayer 41 may alternatively comprise one or more substrates of amesh-like, three-dimensional spacer material made from polyester. Such amesh-like spacer material is sold by Muller Textiles, Inc. ofWoonsocket, R.I., under the trade name 3 mesh. The mesh-like spacermaterial comprises two warp-knitted layers connected by pilemonofilaments. When the mesh-like spacer material is used for the firstIA layer 41, the inner fabric layer 40 may be omitted.

[0071] The second IA layer 42 may comprise one or more substrates ofclosed-cell foam beads made of cross-linked polyethylene, orpolypropylene. The foam beads are fused together only at their contactpoints so that air can be ventilated through the substrate. Such a foamis sold under the trade name BROCK FOAM by Brock USA of Boulder, Colo.In one embodiment, the second IA layer 42 may be about 0.250 inches inthickness and have a density of 4.0 pounds/cubic-foot (if more the onesubstrate, the substrates may have the same or different densities). Itshould be understood that any dense foam capable of ventilating air maybe used as the second IA layer 42.

[0072] The third IA layer 43 may comprise one or more substrates of avisco-elastic dry polymer available from Magister Corporation ofChattanooga, Tenn. In one embodiment, the IA layer 43 may be about 0.250inches in thickness, and may be sized such that it covers only anintermediate area (the area disposed between stitching lines 46 as canbe seen in FIGS. 12A-C, 8, and 9) of the second IA layer 42. It iscontemplated that other very firm and/or dense materials capable ofresiliently absorbing the impact forces that occur in contact sports andthe like, may be utilized for the third IA layer 43.

[0073] The outer fabric layer 44 may comprise any well knownair-ventilating fabric, such as a nylon mesh or perforated fabric. Theouter fabric layer 44 may cover the portions of the second IA layer 42not covered by the third IA layer 43. The outer fabric layer 44 may belight color, such as white, to reflect and not absorb heat generatedfrom the sun's ultra-violet rays.

[0074] In other embodiments, the inner shoulder pad laminate maycomprise the L1 layers 41, 42, and 43 in a different order or position.For example, the position of the first and second IA layers 41 and 42may be reversed such that the second IA layer 42 is laminated to theinner fabric layer 40 instead of the first IA layer 41.

[0075] In a further embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12B, the inner shoulderlaminate may comprise a fourth IA layer 47 disposed between the outerfabric layer 44 and the portions of the second IA layer 42 not coveredby the third IA layer 43. The fourth IA layer 47 may comprise one ormore substrates of the closed-cell foam beads. The fourth IA layer 47may be about 0.125 inches in thickness have density of about 5.5pounds/cubic-foot.

[0076] In still another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12C, the innershoulder laminate may comprise a radiant heat barrier layer 48 disposedunder the outer fabric layer 44. The radiant heat barrier layer 48 maycomprise an aluminized polyester film. The aluminized polyester film maycomprise an industrial grade aluminum film laminated to a polyester filmor other type of fabric which provides the requisite tensile strength.Such an aluminized fabric may be obtained from Gentex Corporation(through Performance Textiles of Carbondale, Pa.).

[0077] The inner shoulder pad 14 b may include one or more channel pads70 detachably fastened to the inner surface thereof as shown in FIG. 9.In the shown embodiment, the channel pads 70 may be fastened to ends ofthe inner shoulder pad 14 b. Fastening may be accomplished using aconventional hook and loop fastening system. When the inner fabric layer40 of the inner shoulder pad 14 b comprises a material that is not hookand loop compatible, the earlier described snap fasteners (not shown)may be alternatively employed for detachably fastening the channel pads70 to the inner surface of the inner shoulder pad 14 b.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 12D, the channel pad 70 may comprise a laminateformed by an inner fabric layer 71 which faces the athlete's body, a IAlayer 72, an outer fabric layer 73, and a hook layer 74. The outerfabric layer 73 and the hook layer 74 face the shell assembly. Thelayers of the laminate may be held together using the air-ventilatingweb-like glue (not shown) described above. The peripheral edge of thechannel pad 70 may be covered or trimmed with a conventional fabrictrimming 75 made, without limitation, from woven nylon, which may besewn to the edge of the pad 70.

[0079] The inner fabric layer 71 may comprise a perforated fabric (e.g.,perforated Dri-Lex), a brushed nylon fabric, or other air-ventilatingfabric. The fabric may be a dark color, such as black, for body heatabsorption.

[0080] The IA layer 72 may comprise one or more substrates of theearlier described closed-cell foam beads made of cross-linkedpolyethylene, or polypropylene, sold under the trade name BROCK FOAM byBrock USA of Boulder, Colo. In one embodiment, the IA layer 72 may beabout 0.250 inches in thickness and have a density of 4.0pounds/cubic-foot (if more the one substrate, the substrates may havethe same or different densities). In another embodiment, the IA layer 72may comprise any dense foam capable of ventilating air.

[0081] The outer fabric layer 73 may comprise any well knownair-ventilating fabric, such as nylon mesh fabric. The outer fabriclayer 73 may be light color, such as white, to reflect and not absorbheat generated from the sun's ultra-violet rays.

[0082] The hook layer 74 may comprise a layer of hook material which iscapable of detachably gripping to the inner fabric layer 70 of the innershoulder pad 12 b to detachably fasten the channel pad 70 thereto.

[0083] In another embodiment the channel pad laminate may comprise aradiant heat barrier layer disposed under the outer fabric layer. Theradiant heat barrier layer may comprise the aluminized polyester fabricmentioned above. The channel pad laminate may also comprise additionalIA layers of air-ventilating foams including, for example, one or moresubstrates of the earlier described reticulated foam and/or one or moresubstrates of the earlier-described mesh-like spacer material.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 13A, the chest, back, lower shoulder, anddeltoid pads 14 a, 14 e, 14 d, and 14 f respectively, may each comprisea laminate formed by an inner fabric layer 50 which faces the athlete'sbody, a first IA layer 51, a second IA layer 52, and an outer fabriclayer 53 which faces the shell assembly. The channel pad 70 describedearlier may also comprise such a laminate. The second IA layer 52 may befirmer than the first IA layer 51. The layers of the laminate may beheld together using the air-ventilating web-like glue (not shown)described earlier. The peripheral edges of the pads 14 a, 14 e, 14 d,and 14 f may be covered or trimmed with a conventional fabric trimming54 made, without limitation, from woven nylon, which may be sewn to theedges of the pads 14 a, 14 e, 14 d, and 14 f.

[0085] The inner fabric layer 50 may comprise a perforated fabric, suchas the perforated or doeskin Dri-Lex fabric. The inner fabric layer 50may also comprise other types of air-ventilating fabrics. The innerfabric layer 50 may be a dark color, such as black, for body heatabsorption.

[0086] The first IA layer 51 may comprise one or more substrates of theearlier-described reticulated (open cell), polyurethane foam or otherair-ventilating foam. The first IA layer 51 may have a total thicknessof about 0.250 inches in thickness and a density of 1.30pounds/cubic-foot. The first IA layer 51 may be a dark color, such asblack, to absorb heat generated by the athlete's body. The first IAlayer 51 may alternatively comprise one or more substrates of themesh-like, three-dimensional spacer material sold by Muller Textiles,Inc. of Woonsocket, R.I. under the trade name 3 mesh. When the mesh-likespacer material is used for the first IA layer 51, the inner fabriclayer 50 may be omitted.

[0087] The second IA layer 52 may comprise one or more substrates of theearlier described closed-cell foam beads made of cross-linkedpolyethylene, or polypropylene, sold under the trade name BROCK FOAM byBrock USA of Boulder, Colo. The IA layer 51 may be about 0.250 inches inthickness and have a density of 4.0 pounds/cubic-foot (if more the onesubstrate, the substrates may have the same or different densities).Alternatively, any dense foam capable of ventilating air may be used asthe second IA layer 52.

[0088] The outer fabric layer 53 may comprise any well knownair-ventilating fabric, such as a nylon mesh fabric. The outer fabriclayer 53 may be light color, such as white, to reflect and not absorbheat generated from the sun's ultra-violet rays.

[0089] In an alternate embodiment as shown in FIG. 13B, one or more ofthe chest, back, lower shoulder, and deltoid pad laminates may comprisea radiant heat barrier layer 55 disposed under the outer fabric layer53. The radiant heat barrier layer 55 may comprise the aluminizedpolyester fabric mentioned above.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 14, the outer shoulder pads 14 c may comprise alaminate formed of an inner fabric layer 60, which faces the athlete'sbody, a IA layer 61, and an outer fabric layer 62, which faces the shellassembly. The layers of the laminate may be held together using theair-ventilating web-like glue (not shown) described earlier. Theperipheral edge of the pad 14 c may be covered or trimmed with a fabrictrimming 63 made, without limitation, from woven nylon, which may besewn to the edge of the pad 14 c.

[0091] The inner fabric layer 60 may comprise any of the air-ventilatingfabrics described herein. The inner fabric layer 60 may be a dark color,such as black, for body heat absorption.

[0092] The IA layer 61 may comprise one or more substrates of firm,dense EVA foam. The IA layer 61 may have a total thickness of about0.250 inches in thickness, and may be a dark color, such as black, toabsorb heat generated by the athlete's body. The IA layer 61 mayalternatively comprise one or more substrates the earlier describedclosed-cell foam beads made of cross-linked polyethylene, orpolypropylene, one or more substrates of the visco-elastic dry polymer,or any combination of EVA foam, foam bead foam, or visco-elastic drypolymer.

[0093] The outer fabric layer 62 may comprise the aluminized polyesterfabric described earlier, which operates as a radiant hear barrier.

[0094] The reticulated polyurethane foam which may be used in the padsis environmentally friendly and very versatile. When compared to otherfoams, it offers substantial advantages in properties such as tensilestrength, ease of fabrication, and depending on grade, its resistance tomany chemicals, cleaning solutions, solvents, acids and alkalis.Reticulated polyurethane foams are also considered “non-nutrients” andare not ingested by microbial organisms and are often available withpermanent fungicidal and bactericidal additives to enhance theantimicrobial activity. Accordingly, the pads stay a cleaner than thepadding in conventional shoulder pad apparatus designs, which employconventional foams encapsulated in a sealed nylon shell.

[0095] Another feature of the reticulated polyurethane foam is itsability to transport the perspiration from the wearers body into thefoam itself and allow evaporation to occur more quickly and efficiently.When heat and pressure are used to manufacture reticulated foam, theycreate a flexible skeletal structure without cell membranes. The resultis open-pore foam that can be produced in a wide range of preciselycontrolled pore sizes that may contain void volumes of up to 98%. Thiscreates a large amount of “open space” to allow both airflow andabsorption of liquids. Unlike the foams used in conventional pads, whichsmother the athlete's body and retain the liquid, the reticulatedpolyurethane foam pulls the heat and liquid into the foam while stillallowing air circulation, ventilation, and evaporation to cool theshoulder pad apparatus more effectively and efficiently.

[0096] The closed-cell foam bead foam (BROCK FOAM) used in the padsfunctions to absorb impacts and more importantly, allow air,perspiration, and water to flow therethrough. Because the foam beads arefused together only at their contact points, heat generated by theathlete's body and outside air can flow freely through this foam therebyreducing the possibility of heat stroke and exhaustion.

[0097] The visco-elastic dry polymer is primarily provided in the padsfor impact protection. The visco-elastic dry polymer is a soft syntheticrubber that is vulcanized by intensive cross-linking and cured into astable solid. Compared to other foams or gels, visco-elastic dry polymerhas superior load bearing capacity, elongation, elasticity, firmness,and tensile strength. The visco-elastic dry polymer resists fullcompression and evenly distributes the force of impact over its entiresurface, thereby decreasing the chance that a high-risk area such as theAcromio Clavicular Joint will be negatively affected, resulting ininjury. The visco-elastic dry polymer conforms comfortably to and moveseasily with the athlete's body, and retains its original shape afterdeformation. The visco-elastic dry polymer is an excellent heatconductor, and therefore, functions as a heat sink to evenly absorb heatgenerated internally from the athlete's body. The heat absorbed by thevisco-elastic dry polymer is transferred (conductive heat transfer),outwardly toward its edges, therefore, preventing “hot spots” in the padas this entire layer is continually striving to become the sametemperature. The conductive heat transfer properties of thevisco-elastic dry polymer reduces tissue trauma because it preventscapillary closure (a breakdown of capillary blood vessels in skintissue). In embodiments where the air-venting apertures are providedthrough the shell assembly panels, the corresponding substrate ofvisco-elastic dry polymer may be provided with a series of air ventingapertures (not shown) which approximately align with the air ventingapertures of the shell assembly panel, to provide additional heatdissipation.

[0098] The air-ventilating fabrics used in pads allow for free air andliquid flow, which enable the athlete's body to naturally cool itself.More specifically, the Dri-Lex fabrics may have a two-layerconstruction. The inner layer, (the layer against the athlete's body),is “hydrophobic” or water negative open cell foam. It absorbs moisturebut does not evaporate it, which is what most “moisture absorbent”linings do. They simply hold moisture, which means a damp, uncomfortablefeeling against the body. To avoid this problem, the outer layercomprises a 100% Hydrofil nylon manufactured by Allied SignalCorporation, that draws the moisture from the inner hydrophobic layer,keeping that layer dry, cool, soft and comfortable against the body.This is a very important part of the athlete's comfort and safety. Adrier cushioning pad is less likely to slip during a collision, keepingthe pad in place and the athlete protected. The two-layer constructionalso has its own built-in ventilation system, which provides theshoulder cushioning pad with a high level of breath-ability. Thehigh-quality fibers provide excellent wear resistance and retain shapelonger. Because of Dri-lex's “thermostatic control” inside, the padsalways feel dry, cool and comfortable to the athlete, as well as makingthe pads more hygienic.

[0099] The radiant heat barrier used in pads provide the athlete with animportant level of thermal protection. Radiant heat barriers aretypically made of materials that restrict the transfer of infraredradiation across an airspace. They do this by reflecting the radiationthat strikes them, and at the same time, not radiating heat energy. Amaterial that inhibits radiative transfer in this manner is said to havea very low emissivity (the relative power of a surface to emit heat byradiation). The lower the emissivity, the better the radiant barrier.This features enables the radiant heat barrier layer to be placed oneither the inner (athlete body side) or outer (shell assembly side) ofthe pads, as one side reflects while the other side simply decreases theamount of emitted radiation. It is not necessary to form “airtight”seals with radiant barriers, as radiant energy travels in a straightline through the air, but is not transported by the air.

[0100] The thickness of the pads may be, without limitation, about 0.500inches, although all of the pads of the cushioning pad assembly may beoffered in different thicknesses. For example, if the athlete has aninjury and needs more protective padding on the left side of his body,the athlete can simply remove the existing pads, with pads of a desiredincreased thickness, for example, 0.625 inches. When the injury hashealed (or at any time), the athlete may go back to the original padthickness. Although not shown, the pads may also be formed as accessory“donuts” or “horseshoes” for specific orthopedic injuries in theshoulder area.

[0101] The pad apparatus may be secured to the athlete's upper torsowith a belt strap system, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1-4. The beltstrap system may comprise a belt strap 35 a and buckle 35 b arrangement,provided on each halve H1, H2 of the pad apparatus 10. In otherembodiments of the invention, the belt strap system may comprise aslide-ratchet belt strap arrangement (not shown), provided on each halveH1, H2 of the pad apparatus 10. The slide-ratchet belt strap is similarto the type of slide-ratchet belt strap system used on conventional skiboots or used to secure freight from shifting during transit. Theslide-ratchet belt strap system allows for quick and easy placement andremovable of the pad apparatus 10 of the invention. As shown in FIG. 24,each belt strap 35 a may be provided with a cushioning pad 90 which mayconstructed similar to the chest or back pads or constructed from anelastomeric coated strap material. The protector pad 90 includes slotsthrough which the strap 35 a extends for cushioning the sides of anathlete's torso, adjacent the waistline. In another embodiment, as shownin FIG. 25, the chest and/or back pads can be laterally extended andprovided with slots 92 through which the strap 35 a extends forcushioning the sides of an athlete's torso, adjacent the waistline. Asshown in FIG. 21, a buckle pad 93 similar in construction to the chestand back pads, can be attached to the inner surface of the buckle strap35 c to provide cushioning between the buckle 35 b and the athlete'sbody.

[0102] Referring again to FIGS. 21-23, additional belts 36 may beprovided on each halve H1, H2 of the pad apparatus for securing it tothe athlete's upper torso. The additional belts 36 may comprise anelastic strap fastened to each shell assembly back panel 12 e (FIG. 22).The free end of each belt 36 may include a T-shape hook 36 a (FIG. 23)which is inserted into an elongated slot 37 (FIG. 21) in thecorresponding shell assembly chest panel 12 a and rotated 90 degrees toretain the hook 36 a in the slot 37. The tension of the belts 36 may bemade adjustable using any conventional strap tightening system.

[0103] In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the chestprotector panel 12 a″, the inner shoulder protector panel 12 b″, and theback protector panel 12 e″ of each shell assembly halve H1 and H2 may beformed as a single unitary member. The unitarily formed chest/innershoulder/back panels may be embossed if desired.

[0104] While the foregoing invention has been described with referenceto the above embodiments, various modifications and changes can be madewithout departing from the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, allsuch modifications and changes are considered to be within the scope ofthe appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A protective pad apparatus for protecting auser's chest, back, and shoulders, the apparatus comprising: a shellassembly; and a cushioning pad fastened to the shell assembly, thecushioning pad comprising a laminate having at least one impactabsorbing layer which allows air to flow therethrough.
 2. The protectivepad apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the laminate furthercomprises an outer fabric layer.
 3. The protective pad apparatusaccording to claim 2, wherein the outer fabric layer allows air to flowtherethrough.
 4. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 2,wherein the outer fabric layer functions as a radiant heat barrier. 5.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the outerfabric layer comprises an aluminized polyester.
 6. The protective padapparatus according to claim 2, wherein the laminate further comprisesan inner fabric layer.
 7. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 6, wherein the inner fabric layer allows air to flow therethrough.8. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 1, wherein thelaminate further comprises an inner fabric layer.
 9. The protective padapparatus according to claim 8, wherein the inner fabric layer allowsair to flow therethrough.
 10. A protective pad apparatus for protectinga user's chest, back, and shoulders, the apparatus comprising: a shellassembly; and a cushioning pad fastened to the shell assembly, thecushioning pad comprising a laminate having at least two impactabsorbing layers, at least one of the at least two impact absorbinglayers allowing air to flow therethrough.
 11. The protective padapparatus according to claim 10, wherein one of the at least two impactabsorbing layers comprises at least one substrate of reticulated foam.12. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the atleast one substrate of reticulated foam has a black color.
 13. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the other one ofthe at least two impact absorbing layers comprises at least onesubstrate of foam beads that are fused together only where the beadscontact one another.
 14. The protective pad apparatus according to claim13, wherein the laminate further comprises an outer fabric layer, theouter fabric layer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 15. The protectivepad apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the laminate furthercomprises an inner fabric layer, the inner fabric layer allowing air toflow therethrough.
 16. The protective pad apparatus according to claim13, wherein the laminate further comprises an inner fabric layer, theinner fabric layer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 17. The protectivepad apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the laminate furthercomprises an outer fabric layer, the outer fabric layer allowing air toflow therethrough.
 18. The protective pad apparatus according to claim17, wherein the outer fabric layer faces toward the shell assembly andcomprises a light color.
 19. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 10, wherein the laminate further comprises an inner fabric layer,the inner fabric layer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 20. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the inner fabriclayer faces away from the shell assembly and comprises a dark color. 21.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 10, wherein one of theat least two impact absorbing layers comprises at least one substrate offoam beads which are fused together only where the beads contact oneanother.
 22. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 10, whereinthe laminate further comprises a radiant hear barrier layer.
 23. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the radiant heatbarrier layer comprises an aluminized polyester.
 24. A protective padapparatus for protecting a user's chest, back, and shoulders, theapparatus comprising: a shell assembly; and a cushioning pad fastened tothe shell assembly, the cushioning pad comprising a laminate having atleast three impact absorbing layers, at least one of the three impactabsorbing layers allowing air to flow therethrough.
 25. The protectivepad apparatus according to claim 24, wherein one of the at least threeimpact absorbing layers comprises at least one substrate of reticulatedfoam.
 26. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 25, whereinthe at least one substrate of reticulated foam has a black color. 27.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 25, wherein a second oneof the at least three impact absorbing layers comprises at least onesubstrate of foam beads which are fused together only where the beadscontact one another.
 28. The protective pad apparatus according to claim27, wherein a third one of the at least three impact absorbing layerscomprises at least one substrate of visco-elastic polymer.
 29. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the at least onesubstrate of visco-elastic polymer includes at least one air ventilationaperture.
 30. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 28,wherein the laminate further comprises an outer fabric layer, the outerfabric layer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 31. The protective padapparatus according to claim 30, wherein the laminate further comprisesan inner fabric layer, the inner fabric layer allowing air to flowtherethrough.
 32. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 28,wherein the laminate further comprises an inner fabric layer, the innerfabric layer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 33. The protective padapparatus according to claim 24, wherein one of the at least threeimpact absorbing layers comprises at least one substrate of foam beadswhich are fused together only where the beads contact one another. 34.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 24, wherein one of theat least three impact absorbing layers comprises at least one substrateof visco-elastic polymer.
 35. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 34, wherein the at least one substrate of visco-elastic polymerincludes at least one air ventilation aperture.
 36. The protective padapparatus according to claim 24, wherein the laminate further comprisesa radiant hear barrier layer.
 37. The protective pad apparatus accordingto claim 36, wherein the radiant heat barrier layer comprises analuminized polyester.
 38. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 24, wherein the laminate further comprises an outer fabric layer,the outer fabric layer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 39. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 38, wherein the outer fabriclayer faces toward the shell assembly and comprises a light color. 40.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the laminatefurther comprises an inner fabric layer, the inner fabric layer allowingair to flow therethrough.
 41. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 40, wherein the inner fabric layer faces away from the shellassembly and comprises a dark color.
 42. The protective pad apparatusaccording to claim 24, further comprising at least a second cushioningpad detachably fastened to an inner surface of the cushioning pad, theat least second cushioning pad comprising a laminate having at least oneimpact absorbing layer which allows air to flow therethrough.
 43. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 42, wherein the laminate ofthe at least second cushioning pad further comprises outer and innerfabric layers.
 44. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 43,wherein the outer and inner fabric layers of the laminate of the atleast second cushioning pad each allow air to flow therethrough.
 45. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the outer fabriclayer of the laminate of the at least second cushioning pad faces towardthe inner surface of the cushioning pad and comprises a light color andthe inner fabric layer of the laminate of the at least second cushioningpad faces away from the inner surface of the cushioning pad andcomprises a dark color.
 46. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the cushioning pad comprises one of a plurality ofdiscrete cushioning pads forming a cushioning pad assembly.
 47. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the cushioningpad comprises one of a plurality of discrete cushioning pads forming acushioning pad assembly.
 48. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 24, wherein the cushioning pad comprises one of a plurality ofdiscrete cushioning pads forming a cushioning pad assembly.
 49. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the shellassembly comprises a plurality of discrete protector panels.
 50. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the shellassembly comprises a plurality of discrete protector panels.
 51. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the shellassembly comprises a plurality of discrete protector panels.
 52. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cushioningpad is fastened to the shell assembly with at least one snap fastener.53. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 10, wherein thecushioning pad is fastened to the shell assembly with at least one snapfastener.
 54. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 24,wherein the cushioning pad is fastened to the shell assembly with atleast one snap fastener.
 55. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein shell assembly includes first and second halves. 56.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 55, wherein the firstand second halves are connected by a first protector plate.
 57. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 56, wherein the firstprotector plate allows the first and second halves of the shell assemblyto move relative to one another.
 58. The protective pad apparatusaccording to claim 56, wherein the first and second halves are furtherconnected by a second protector plate.
 59. The protective pad apparatusaccording to claim 58, wherein the protector plates allow the first andsecond halves of the shell assembly to move relative to one another. 60.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 55, wherein the firstand second halves of the shell assembly are connected to one another ina manner which allows the halves to move relative to one another. 61.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 49, wherein shellassembly includes first and second halves.
 62. The protective padapparatus according to claim 61, wherein the first and second halves areconnected by a first protector plate.
 63. The protective pad apparatusaccording to claim 62, wherein the first protector plate allows thefirst and second halves of the shell assembly to move relative to oneanother.
 64. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 62, whereinthe first and second halves are further connected by a second protectorplate.
 65. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 64, whereinthe protector plates allow the first and second halves of the shellassembly to move relative to one another.
 66. The protective padapparatus according to claim 61, wherein the first and second halves ofthe shell assembly are connected to one another in a manner which allowsthe halves to move relative to one another.
 67. The protective padapparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a belt strap systemfor securing the apparatus to a user, the belt strap system comprisingat least one cushioning pad comprising a laminate having at least oneimpact absorbing layer which allows air to flow therethrough.
 68. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the shellassembly includes a plurality of raised embossments.
 69. The protectivepad apparatus according to claim 49, wherein at least one of theprotector panels includes at least one raised embossment.
 70. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 49, wherein the protectorpanels comprise at least one chest protector panel that includes atleast one raised embossment.
 71. The protective pad apparatus accordingto claim 49, wherein the protector panels comprise at least one backprotector panel that includes at least one raised embossment.
 72. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 49, wherein the protectorpanels comprise at least one inner shoulder protector panel thatincludes at least one raised embossment.
 73. The protective padapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the shell assembly comprises apearlized white metallic color.
 74. The protective pad apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the shell assembly comprises a pluralityof ventilation holes.
 75. The protective pad apparatus according toclaim 1, further comprising at least one spring element forstrengthening an inner shoulder portion of the shell assembly.
 76. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 75, wherein the at least onespring element is fastened to the shell assembly with fasteners thatallow the at least one spring element to swing laterally.
 77. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 75, wherein the at least onespring element includes an impact absorbing layer.
 78. The protectivepad apparatus according to claim 49, further comprising at least onespring element for strengthening an inner shoulder portion of the shellassembly.
 79. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 78,wherein the at least one spring element is fastened to the shellassembly with fasteners that allow the at least one spring element toswing laterally.
 80. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 78,wherein the at least one spring element includes an impact absorbinglayer.
 81. The protective pad apparatus according to claim 1, whereinthe shell assembly includes a lower shoulder panel fastened to an innershoulder area by two straps that cross one another.
 82. The protectivepad apparatus according to claim 49, wherein the protector panelscomprise a lower shoulder protector panel and an inner shoulderprotector panel, the lower shoulder protector panel fastened to theinner shoulder protector panel by two straps that cross one another. 83.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 49, wherein at least oneof the protector panels comprises a plurality of ventilation holes. 84.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 49, wherein each of theprotector panels has at least one of a predetermined size and apredetermined shape and wherein each of the protector panels can beindividually replaced with a protector panel having one of at least adifferent predetermined size and a different predetermined shape. 85.The protective pad apparatus according to claim 49, wherein thecushioning pad comprises one of a plurality of discrete cushioning padsforming a cushioning pad assembly.
 86. The protective pad apparatusaccording to claim 85, wherein each of the protector panels having atleast one of a predetermined size and a predetermined shape and each ofthe protector panels being individually replaceable with a protectorpanel having at least one of a different predetermined size and adifferent predetermined shape.
 87. The protective pad apparatusaccording to claim 86, wherein each of the cushioning pads having apredetermined size and a predetermined shape and each of the cushioningpads being individually replaceable with a cushioning pad having atleast one of a different predetermined size and a differentpredetermined shape.
 88. The protective pad apparatus according to claim85, wherein each of the cushioning pads having a predetermined size anda predetermined shape and each of the cushioning pads being individuallyreplaceable with a cushioning pad having at least one of a differentpredetermined size and a different predetermined shape.
 89. Theprotective pad apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cushioningpad comprising one of a plurality of discrete cushioning pads forming acushioning pad assembly, each of the cushioning pads having apredetermined size and a predetermined shape and each of the cushioningpads being individually replaceable with a cushioning pad having atleast one of a different predetermined size and a differentpredetermined shape.
 90. A cushioning pad for use with a protective padapparatus that protects a user's chest, back, and shoulders, thecushioning pad comprising: a laminate having at least one impactabsorbing layer that allows air to flow therethrough.
 91. The cushioningpad according to claim 90, wherein the at least one impact absorbinglayer comprises at least one substrate of reticulated foam.
 92. Thecushioning pad according to claim 91, wherein the at least one substrateof reticulated foam has a black color.
 93. The cushioning pad accordingto claim 90, wherein the at least one impact absorbing layer comprisesat least one substrate of foam beads which are fused together only wherethe beads contact one another.
 94. The cushioning pad according to claim90, wherein the at least one impact absorbing layer comprises at leastone substrate of visco-elastic polymer.
 95. The cushioning pad accordingto claim 94, wherein the at least one substrate of visco-elastic polymerincludes at least one air ventilation aperture.
 96. The cushioning padaccording to claim 90, wherein the laminate further comprises at leastone substrate of visco-elastic polymer.
 97. The cushioning pad accordingto claim 90, wherein the laminate further comprises an outer fabriclayer, the outer fabric layer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 98. Thecushioning pad according to claim 97, wherein the laminate furthercomprises an inner fabric layer, the inner fabric layer allowing air toflow therethrough.
 99. The cushioning pad according to claim 90, whereinthe laminate further comprises an inner fabric layer, the inner fabriclayer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 100. The cushioning padaccording to claim 90, wherein the laminate further comprises a radianthear barrier layer.
 101. The cushioning pad according to claim 100,wherein the radiant heat barrier layer comprises an aluminizedpolyester.
 102. The cushioning pad according to claim 90, wherein the atleast one impact absorbing layer comprises two impact absorbing layers,the two impact absorbing layers including at least one impact absorbinglayer comprises at least one substrate of reticulated foam and at leastone substrate of foam beads which are fused together only where thebeads contact one another.
 103. The cushioning pad according to claim102, wherein the laminate further comprises outer and inner fabriclayers, the outer and inner fabric layers each allowing air to flowtherethrough.
 104. The cushioning pad according to claim 102, whereinthe laminate further comprises a radiant hear barrier layer.
 105. Thecushioning pad according to claim 102, wherein the laminate furthercomprises a third impact absorbing layer, the third impact absorbinglayer including at least one substrate of visco-elastic polymer. 106.The cushioning pad according to claim 105, wherein the at least onesubstrate of visco-elastic polymer includes at least one air ventilationaperture.
 107. The cushioning pad according to claim 102, wherein thelaminate further comprises at least one substrate of visco-elasticpolymer.
 108. The cushioning pad according to claim 107, wherein the atleast one substrate of visco-elastic polymer includes at least one airventilation aperture.
 109. The cushioning pad according to claim 97,wherein the outer fabric layer faces toward the shell assembly andcomprises a light color.
 110. The cushioning pad according to claim 99,wherein the inner fabric layer faces away from the shell assembly andcomprises a dark color.
 111. The cushioning pad according to claim 90 incombination with at least a second cushioning pad detachably fastened toan inner surface of the cushioning pad, the at least second cushioningpad comprising a laminate having at least one impact absorbing layerwhich allows air to flow therethrough.
 112. A cushioning pad assemblyfor use with a protective pad apparatus that protects a user's chest,back, and shoulders, the cushioning pad assembly comprising a pluralityof discrete cushioning pads, at least one of the plurality of discretecushioning pads comprising a laminate having at least one impactabsorbing layer that allows air to flow therethrough.
 113. Thecushioning pad assembly according to claim 113, wherein the at least oneimpact absorbing layer comprises at least one substrate of reticulatedfoam.
 114. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 114, whereinthe at least one substrate of reticulated foam has a black color. 115.The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 113, wherein the at leastone impact absorbing layer comprises at least one substrate of foambeads which are fused together only where the beads contact one another.116. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 113, wherein the atleast one impact absorbing layer comprises at least one substrate ofvisco-elastic polymer.
 117. The cushioning pad assembly according toclaim 117, wherein the at least one substrate of visco-elastic polymerincludes at least one air ventilation aperture.
 118. The cushioning padassembly according to claim 113, wherein the laminate further comprisesat least one substrate of visco-elastic polymer.
 119. The cushioning padassembly according to claim 113, wherein the laminate further comprisesan outer fabric layer, the outer fabric layer allowing air to flowtherethrough.
 120. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 120,wherein the laminate further comprises an inner fabric layer, the innerfabric layer allowing air to flow therethrough.
 121. The cushioning padassembly according to claim 113, wherein the laminate further comprisesan inner fabric layer, the inner fabric layer allowing air to flowtherethrough.
 122. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 113,wherein the laminate further comprises a radiant hear barrier layer.123. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 123, wherein theradiant heat barrier layer comprises an aluminized polyester.
 124. Thecushioning pad assembly according to claim 113, wherein the at least oneimpact absorbing layer comprises two impact absorbing layers, the twoimpact absorbing layers including at least one impact absorbing layercomprises at least one substrate of reticulated foam and at least onesubstrate of foam beads which are fused together only where the beadscontact one another.
 125. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim125, wherein the laminate further comprises outer and inner fabriclayers, the outer and inner fabric layers each allowing air to flowtherethrough.
 126. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 125,wherein the laminate further comprises a radiant hear barrier layer.127. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 125, wherein thelaminate further comprises a third impact absorbing layer, the thirdimpact absorbing layer including at least one substrate of visco-elasticpolymer.
 128. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 128,wherein the at least one substrate of visco-elastic polymer includes atleast one air ventilation aperture.
 129. The cushioning pad assemblyaccording to claim 125, wherein the laminate further comprises at leastone substrate of visco-elastic polymer.
 130. The cushioning pad assemblyaccording to claim 130, wherein the at least one substrate ofvisco-elastic polymer includes at least one air ventilation aperture.131. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 119, wherein theouter fabric layer faces toward the shell assembly and comprises a lightcolor.
 132. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 121, whereinthe inner fabric layer faces away from the shell assembly and comprisesa dark color.
 133. The cushioning pad assembly according to claim 112,wherein at least a second cushioning pad is detachably fastened to aninner surface of the at least one cushioning pad, the at least secondcushioning pad comprising a laminate having at least one impactabsorbing layer which allows air to flow therethrough.
 134. Thecushioning pad assembly according to claim 112, wherein the protectivepad apparatus includes a shell assembly.
 135. The cushioning padaccording to claim 90, wherein the protective pad apparatus includes ashell assembly.
 134. A shell assembly for a protective pad apparatusthat protects a user's chest, back, and shoulders, the shell assemblycomprising a plurality of discrete protector panels.
 135. The shellassembly according to claim 134, wherein the protector panels include atleast one inner shoulder protector panel, at least one chest panelfastened to a first end of the inner shoulder protector panel, and atleast one back panel fastened to a second end of the inner shoulderprotector panel.
 136. The shell assembly according to claim 134, whereinshell assembly defines first and second halves.
 137. The shell assemblyaccording to claim 136, wherein the first and second halves areconnected by a first protector plate.
 138. The shell assembly accordingto claim 137, wherein the first protector plate allows the first andsecond halves of the shell assembly to move relative to one another.139. The shell assembly according to claim 137, wherein the first andsecond halves are further connected by a second protector plate. 140.The shell assembly according to claim 139, wherein the protector platesallow the first and second halves of the shell assembly to move relativeto one another.
 141. The shell assembly according to claim 136, whereinthe first and second halves of the shell assembly are connected to oneanother in a manner which allows the halves to move relative to oneanother.
 142. The shell assembly according to claim 134, furthercomprising a belt strap system for securing the apparatus to a user, thebelt strap system comprising at least one cushioning pad comprising alaminate having at least one impact absorbing layer which allows air toflow therethrough.
 143. The shell assembly according to claim 134,wherein at least one of the protector panels includes at least oneraised embossment.
 144. The shell assembly according to claim 135,wherein at least one of the chest protector panel and the back protectorpanel includes at least one raised embossment.
 145. The shell assemblyaccording to claim 134, wherein the protector panels are a pearlizedwhite metallic color.
 146. The shell assembly according to claim 134,wherein at least one of the protector panels comprises at least oneventilation hole.
 147. The shell assembly according to claim 135,further comprising at least one spring element for strengthening the atleast one inner shoulder protector panel.
 148. The shell assemblyaccording to claim 147, wherein the at least one spring element isfastened to the shell assembly with fasteners that allow the springelement to swing laterally.
 149. The shell assembly according to claim147, wherein the at least one spring element includes an impactabsorbing layer.
 150. The shell assembly according to claim 134, whereinone of the protector panels comprises a lower shoulder panel fastened tothe shell assembly by two straps that cross one another.
 151. The shellassembly according to claim 134, wherein each of the protector panelshas at least one of a predetermined size and a predetermined shape andwherein each of the protector panels can be individually replaced with aprotector panel having at least one of a different predetermined sizeand a different predetermined shape.
 152. A shell assembly for aprotective pad apparatus that protects a user's chest, back, andshoulders, the shell assembly comprising a pearlized white metalliccolor.
 153. A shell assembly for a protective pad apparatus thatprotects a user's chest, back, and shoulders, the shell assemblycomprising at least one spring element for strengthening the at leastone inner shoulder area of the shell assembly.